How to Tenderize Meat on the Cheap

Tenderizing beef, pork and other types of meat softens the meat's fibers and connective tissues as well as opens the meat's tissues to accept smoke or liquid flavoring. The tenderizing process does not damage the meat nor does it reduces the piece of meat's overall size. You do not have to purchase and use a commercial meat tenderizer. There are various inexpensive ways of tenderizing meat, including using a meat mallet or liquid tenderizer, before you begin the cooking or grilling process.

There are ways of tenderizing meat without spending a fortune on commercial products.

Using a Meat Mallet

Step

Unpackage and wash the meat under cold, running water, and then place the meat on a clean cutting board or other clean, flat surface.

Step

Pound the meat with a meat mallet from one end to the other to break up the meat's tissues and fibers. The meat will flatten out and expand.

Step

Turn the meat over and continue to pound the meat, including any fat present on the meat, until it is flat.

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Step

Apply your favorite seasonings or salt and pepper to the meat and grill or cook the meat using your home's stove.

Using Vinegar

Step

Unpackage and wash the meat under cold, running water, and then place the meat in a glass or plastic container or bowl.

Step

Pour white or flavored vinegar completely over the meat. Vinegar is acidic and will tenderize the meat as well as add flavoring to the meat.

Step

Cover the glass or plastic container or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Place the container or bowl in your refrigerator overnight.

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Remove the container or bowl from your refrigerator and place the meat on your grill or cook the meat using your home's stove.

Step

Dispose of the vinegar down your home's sink or in your home's outdoor trashcan.